By Their Fruits You will Know Them

Still, it is interesting to learn what it was that DeGaulle thought had shaped his character and his destiny: “The love of Anne DeGaulle,” he told a reporter. It took some digging. Mme. DeGaulle’s name was Yvonne. Anne DeGaulle was the mentally retarded daughter whom the DeGaulles refused to put in an institution. They rearranged their entire domestic life to accommodate this special needs young woman. Anne returned their unstinting love in full measure. And when they stood at her graveside, Charles embraced his wife and said, tearfully: “Now, she is like all the others.”

Americans will make up their own minds about Gov. Palin’s sudden announcement. It may take time. But it should take no time at all to make up our minds about the kind of writer who would offer up this bitter-tasting fruit—and the kind of outfit that would post it.